Obituary of Joseph Zombek

Joseph “Joe” S. Zombek

Joseph Zombek, 70, of Erieville, NY, passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at Crouse Hospital after a brief illness.

Joe was born in Utica, NY, on May 10, 1956, to the late Joseph and Sophie (Rys) Zombek.  He grew up on the family dairy farm, learning many life-long skills.  He graduated from Clinton Central School in 1974.

In his younger days, Joe worked at Vicks Lithograph and Printing and served as a bartender at the VFW in Clinton.  He then worked many years at Brothertown Paving where he developed lifelong friendships.  Joe was a past member of the Deansboro Fire Department.

Joe loved people.  He loved to share experiences and stories and was also a good listener.  In touch with his Polish heritage, Joe always enjoyed a meal of Polish food and dancing a polka.  He loved sports.  In years past, he enjoyed motorcycling, snowmobiling and boating.  For many years, Joe was a loyal fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and NASCAR.  He also enjoyed a round of golf.

Joe loved his home and the simple pleasures of life.  He especially enjoyed time around a campfire, bird watching and the scenic views of Tuscarora Lake.  He was a 10-year cancer survivor.  It did not break his spirit.  He was grateful to the medical professionals who served him.  And especially grateful for the many years of friendship and support that he received from his Tuscarora friends and neighbors who were like an extension of his family.

Joe was a regular patron at the Blue Canoe where he enjoyed the atmosphere and time with friends and family.  Every year, he enjoyed the Blue Canoe’s Polish Night event.

Joe is survived by his daughter Brandi Gall, his son Zachary Zombek, siblings Barbara (Lawrence) Ames, Betty Mays, Bonnie (Chris) Lewis, many nieces, nephews and numerous, lifelong friends in Deansboro.

Calling hours will be Friday, August 7, 2026, from 9am-10am at the Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, 35 College St., Clinton, NY.  The funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 10 am. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Clinton, NY. 

Donations in Joe’s memory may be made to the Deansboro Fire Department (Barton Hose Company) or the Erieville Fire Department.